Automatic Pasta?

New video alert, wrapping gadgets, and some great Amazon deals!

Welcome back everybody! It’s Black Friday, and I’m here with my latest video featuring the Philips automatic pasta maker that’s been making the rounds online. Supposedly, all you have to do is add a few ingredients, and it takes care of the rest. But is it really that simple?

On top of that, I’ve found some fantastic deals online and have my usual shopping tips and review flashbacks to share. Let’s dive in!

NEW VIDEO ALERT
Automatic Pasta Maker Review

Fresh pasta in 18 minutes?

Fresh Pasta at Home? 🍝🤔
My latest video is live, and this time I’m testing the Philips Pasta Maker, a compact machine that claims to whip up fresh pasta in just 18 minutes. With promises of effortless spaghetti, penne, and fettuccine, I had to find out: is it really that simple?

In this review, I break it all down:

  • Spaghetti: Easy setup, great results, but was it perfect?

  • Penne: A surprising twist in the shape department.

  • Fettuccine: Let’s just say… it’s not what I expected.

Click below to see how this automatic pasta maker stacks up and whether it’s worth the cleanup effort!

If you don’t have time to watch, you can always read the written version here.

DEALS
Ninja Thirsti: 47% Off!

I reviewed the Ninja Thirsti drink system in 2023, and my video review has received a steady stream of traffic ever since, highlighting the product's enduring popularity since its release last year. One of the primary complaints I’ve heard is about the cost, which is why today’s deal caught my attention. It’s currently listed at about $80—nearly half the usual price. If you’ve been hesitant to pull the trigger, this might be your chance! You can get it at the official Ninja website.

You can read or watch my review if you’re still on the fence!

I spotted a couple of other deals today as well.

Countertop Dishwasher: 31% Off

When I reviewed the Novete countertop dishwasher back in 2021, I had no idea I’d still be talking about it three years later, but I’m still asked about this item constantly. The price tends to fluctuate, but it’s currently selling for $291, which is the lowest I’ve seen in the three years I’ve been keeping tabs on it. If you’ve been considering this product, now might be a great time to take the plunge. Check out the Amazon listing here.

Fireplace Wax Warmer: 50% Off

My Best of 2024 list hasn’t been released yet, but I can tell you this item will definitely be on it. It’s currently selling for only $15, down from its usual $30. I’ve been using it at least 8 hours a day, and guests compliment it constantly. If it’s not something you’d use personally, it could make a great gift for someone else! Here’s where you can find it. Or you can watch my review if you’re still undecided.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Wrapping Gadgets (2023)

Level-up your wrapping game?

Last year I took a look at several gadgets meant to level-up your gift wrapping game. These included gift wrap holders (seemingly repurposed snap bands), two wrapping cutters, and a clever gadget that holds wrapping paper and dispenses tape.

Don’t have time to watch it? Read the written review here.

SMART SHOPPING
Three Tips for Wiser Shopping

Free Shipping Trick. If you're just under the free shipping threshold, look for a small, practical item (e.g., batteries) to push your total over instead of paying for shipping.

The Warranty Rule. If a product has a short warranty (90 days or less), it might be a sign of poor durability.

Fake 'Eco-Friendly' Claims. Look for specific certifications like "Energy Star" or "FSC-certified" rather than vague terms like "sustainable."

SHORT SPOTLIGHT
Loop Lasso

It probably shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that one of my most popular YouTube Shorts was filmed in a few seconds on my phone. What is surprising is that it has been getting more views lately, more than two years after posting it!

I’m talking about the Loop Lasso, which I never properly reviewed, but I tried it out back with my dog Bailey and posted it as a YouTube Short. Over two years later, those few seconds in my back yard still gets hundreds of views a day.

If you’ve never seen it, check out that YouTube Short here.

I have vivid memories of Black Friday from years ago, back when online shopping wasn’t as prevalent. I remember waking up at the crack of dawn to stand in line, hoping to snag a deal on an expensive appliance or television. Apparently, some people still do that, but it’s not quite the same as it was back in the day when hordes of shoppers would charge into stores, racing to grab the sale items. While I’m glad we’ve mostly moved away from that, there was something oddly charming about the chaos.

Let the holiday shopping begin!

Until next time,
James